Understanding OCD

Living with OCD often means feeling trapped in exhausting cycles of obsessions and compulsions. The urge to avoid discomfort can take over daily life, leaving you stuck, overwhelmed, and far from the things that matter most to you. While it’s normal to want to escape fear, this avoidance often fuels the OCD cycle — reinforcing the very distress you want to get rid of.
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The Role of ERP

​Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is considered the gold-standard treatment for OCD. ERP helps you learn, step by step, to face fears without falling into compulsions or avoidance. Over time, your nervous system learns that discomfort doesn’t have to control you — and that you’re stronger than OCD wants you to believe.

My Approach

While ERP is central, my work goes beyond “just exposures.” I focus on helping you:
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  • Build resilience by doing hard things at a pace that’s both challenging and manageable.
  • Shift from avoidance to engagement, learning that life doesn’t have to shrink around OCD.
  • Reclaim energy that used to go into rituals and redirect it toward your values — relationships, work, creativity, purpose.
  • Thrive, not just survive, even when things feel uncomfortable or uncertain.
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Therapy with me is not about erasing fear — it’s about teaching your body and mind that you can handle it, and that fear doesn’t get to run your life.

Other Approaches That Help

While ERP is the foundation of this work, I also integrate complementary trauma-informed and evidence-based practices when helpful, such as:

CBT

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help you identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns. 

EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can help target and reprocess stuck memories so they have less control over your life. 

ACT

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help anchor you to your values and help you take action towards the life you want.

Somatic / Mindfulness

Somatic and Mindfulness based approaches can help reconnect you with your body and a sense of safety. 
I believe in a balance of compassion and direct action — listening deeply, but also giving you practical ways to move forward.

What You Can Expect

  • ​A therapy space that’s safe, nonjudgmental, and focused on progress
  • A clear plan tailored to your history and goals
  • Tools to manage triggers and reduce overwhelm
  • A collaborative pace that builds confidence and resilience
  • The opportunity to truly grow and move past what’s been holding you back

Taking the First Steps

I don’t just offer a place to “talk” — I offer a structured, evidence-based, and adaptable approach to help you move forward. My clients often share that through our work they feel seen, understood, and equipped in ways they hadn’t before. OCD can convince you that you’re not ready, but the truth is you don’t have to feel ready — you only need to be willing to start.
​"Not sure if this is right for you? Reach out anytime - I'm happy to answer any of your questions, no commitments required."

Let's Get Your Life Back

​You don't have to keep fighting OCD alone. Change is possible, and it can start today. Let’s connect.
​Or call​ 530-356-9793 to schedule